Met Police Mourns Former Commissioner Lord Ian Blair Following His Death Aged 71
The Metropolitan Police is mourning the loss of Lord Ian Blair, a former Commissioner and one of the most influential figures in modern British policing, who sadly passed away on Wednesday, July 9, following an illness. He was 71 years old.
Lord Blair began his career in policing in 1974, joining the Met as a young officer patrolling the streets of Soho. Over a distinguished four-decade career, he rose to the top of British law enforcement, eventually serving as Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service from 2005 to 2008.
A Lifelong Commitment to Public Service
Educated at Oxford University, Lord Blair brought intellectual rigour and a progressive outlook to the world of policing. His early work as a Detective Chief Inspector included a key role in the aftermath of the tragic Kings Cross Station fire in 1987, where he helped lead the complex process of victim identification.
He went on to serve as Assistant Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police and Chief Constable of Surrey Police, before returning to the Met as Deputy Commissioner in 2000. Five years later, he was appointed Commissioner, becoming the most senior police officer in the country.
His tenure coincided with some of the most challenging events in modern British history, including the 7/7 London bombings in 2005. Just days before his death, the Met had commemorated the 20th anniversary of those attacks.
Reformer and Advocate for Modern Policing
Lord Blair is remembered not only for his leadership in crisis, but for his visionary approach to police reform. As Commissioner, he championed neighbourhood policing, introduced Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and revamped the Met’s approach to rape investigations, placing a strong focus on victim care and systemic accountability.
He was also instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion in policing, and in enhancing public trust through transparency and community engagement.
In 2010, he was elevated to the House of Lords as a life peer, continuing to influence policing policy from the red benches as Baron Blair of Boughton.
A Legacy Remembered
Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley led tributes, calling Lord Blair “one of the most influential police leaders of recent decades.”
“He oversaw some of the most challenging moments in our history – not least the response to the horrific terror attacks on 7 July 2005.
What is now seen as best practice in rape cases is in large part a result of his empathy and foresight. He was passionate about the British policing model based around communities.
Even after leaving the Met, he continued to be a friend of policing, contributing thoughtfully from his position in the House of Lords.”
Sir Mark extended condolences on behalf of the force to Lord Blair’s wife Felicity, and their children Amelia and Josh.
National and Political Tributes Expected
Tributes from across the political and policing spectrum are expected in the coming days, as colleagues reflect on Lord Blair’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on modern British policing.
